Location
The stream channel known as Coe Branch starts along the south boundary of West Broad Street, adjacent to the Byron, and continues through Howard E. Herman Stream Valley Park until it enters a pipe at the end of Rollins Street.

Problem
The stream has suffered stream bank erosion due to development over a period of 50-plus years. This has lead to the widening of Coe Branch, a disconnection from the original flood plain, and the destruction of the habitat necessary for diverse aquatic life. Sediment from eroded banks and road grit accumulated in the stream, which further degraded stream habitat conditions.

Frequent flooding occurs in the pipe network downstream of the Rollins Street connection. This condition threatens the homes on Sherrow Avenue. Continued erosion of the stream bank will eventually undercut the foundations of the homes at Rees Place adjacent to the stream.

Project Components

Natural Stream Channel Restoration techniques will be used to relocate and stabilize 700 linear feet of underground stream, now contained in steel piping, will be daylighted. The stream will be relocated through the center of the park in its natural floodplain and away from residences. All of this will help mitigate peak flow and control flooding of the park.

The new alignment and subsequent construction of the project requires the removal of nearly 400 trees of varying sizes. An effort will also be made to remove invasive plant species within the project's limits. Approximately 1350 native canopy and understory trees and shrubs will be planted along the banks in order to restore and stabilize the riparian habitat.

The stream bed will be graded and shaped to improve water flow and increase pool habitat. Techniques such as cross vanes, rock toe protection, constructed riffles, and step pools will be used to prevent future erosion, control the direction of the flow, and prevent scour of the stream bed while providing habitat for wildlife.

The walking path will be relocated in order to allow pedestrians to enjoy the enhanced aesthetic value of Coe Branch and Howard E. Herman Stream Valley Park.